This test determines voltage available from the battery and should be the
first step in any electrical troubleshooting procedure after visual inspection.
Many electrical problems, especially on computer controlled systems, can be
caused by a low state of charge in the battery. Excessive corrosion at the
battery cable terminals can cause poor contact that will prevent proper charging
and full battery current flow.
- Set the voltmeter selector switch to the 20V position.
- Connect the multimeter negative lead to the battery's negative (-) post
or terminal and the positive lead to the battery's positive (+) post or
terminal.
- Turn the ignition switch ON to provide a load.
- A well charged battery should register over 12 volts. If the meter reads
below 11.5 volts, the battery power may be insufficient to operate the electrical
system properly.
